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Watford Football Club have made the move to end Paulo Pezzolano's contract after only five months and 10 matches in charge, confirming the reappointment of ex-manager the Spanish coach as his successor.

It is understood that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in May to take over from the interim manager, along with his technical staff, were instructed not to take practice on midweek as rumors about his exit grew on Tuesday.

The 40-year-old was summoned for a discussion where he became the 11th head coach the club have let go since the start of 2020.

"We are delighted to welcome back Javi," stated the club's chief executive. "His enthusiasm, guidance and well-defined plan will help us build stability, togetherness and positive energy.

"We believe there are many supporters who hoped Gracia had stayed on in the past. With this talented squad, we are convinced his know-how and qualities are exactly what we need at this moment."

Gracia guided the team to the FA Cup final for the second time in the club's history in that year, but was dismissed a few matches into the following campaign and last managed at Leeds in last year.

"For me, the emotion I have right now is that I'm going back home. It was the happiest time of my professional life," he remarked. "I have fond memories and we have unfinished business here. For us, it's another significant move in our career.

"This is something special for us, and at the same time we are highly motivated for this season. If we are together, we are stronger."

The decision to remove Pezzolano arrives despite the team's win against Oxford at Vicarage Road on the weekend, which moved them to eleventh place in the Championship after a slow start that yielded five points from the initial six matches.

The Uruguayan is reportedly departed dismayed by the decision to let him go, having guided the side to a three-match unbeaten run that also included a home win over Hull and a draw at Portsmouth, leaving them three points off the playoff places.

Pezzolano joined soon after the end of the previous campaign with a strong record of leading teams to advancement in Spain, Brazil and his home country.